Dog-Friendly Amsterdam: The Ultimate Pet-Lover's City Escape

Golden hour strolls along the canals: Amsterdam isn’t just for tulips and bikes — it’s a dog lover’s paradise wrapped in 17th-century charm and modern indulgence.

Only a short flight from anywhere in Europe, Amsterdam offers a surprising blend of refined urban energy and paw-perfect relaxation. Whether you’re trotting along cobbled lanes or grabbing coffee at a canal-side cafe, this city has a knack for spoiling you and your pup alike.

Why Visit Amsterdam With Your Dog?

A Tail-Wagging Cultural Capital

Amsterdam isn’t just dog-friendly — it’s dog-obsessed. Locals bring their pups everywhere: trams, cafes, and even some museums. From leafy parks to dog-welcoming patios, your four-legged companion is basically royalty here.

The City of Slow Moments

Yes, you can hit the major museums, but the best part of Amsterdam? Lingering. Savour a stroopwafel, sip a Dutch gin (jenever), and let your dog nap under the table like a true local. Spring through early fall is peak magic.

Pro tip: If you’re travelling light, the Jenni Bag is a lifesaver. It holds everything you and your pup need for a week of stylish city strolling without checking a bag. It’s roomy, minimalist, and sleek enough for Dutch design lovers.

Hidden Gems & Paw-some Experiences

Canal Cruising With Your Canine

Book a private pet-friendly boat tour with Pure Boats and sip prosecco as your dog lounges in the sun. The views? Better than a postcard.

Off-Leash Joy in Vondelpark

Vondelpark is where city dogs go to live their best life. There are off-leash zones, shaded trails, and even pop-up snack bars for humans. Don’t forget the frisbee.

Vintage Market Wanders in Noord

Take the free ferry to Amsterdam Noord and explore the IJ-Hallen flea market (dogs allowed!). Rusty bicycles, mid-century lamps, and vintage scarves galore.

Local's tip: Pick up a leash clip with your phone number at a local pet boutique like Dierenwinkel Pijp. It’s the Amsterdam version of a dog tag, and it blends right in.

Must-Visit Parks and Green Escapes

Westerpark

This artsy green space hosts open-air films and food trucks, and yes, your dog is welcome just about everywhere. Bonus: There’s even a dog splash zone.

Oosterpark

A bit quieter, but full of character. Locals love it for morning walks and off-leash moments. It’s near the Tropenmuseum, and most cafes around here are dog-friendly.

Beatrixpark

One of the cleanest and best-maintained green spaces in the city, with tucked-away benches perfect for reading while your dog sunbathes.

Best Boutique Hotels in Amsterdam (Dog Edition)

Pillows Maurits at the Park

Elegant and warm, this hotel welcomes pets with luxe bedding and a treat bowl upon arrival. It’s located near Oosterpark, so morning walks are easy breezy. Book your stay here.

Conscious Hotel Westerpark

Eco-chic and set inside a former gas factory, this boutique gem is all about sustainable luxury. Your dog gets a recycled-fibre bed and organic treats. Book it here.

Packing tip: Everything fit inside my Jenni Bag, including dog bowls, a week’s worth of outfits, and a raincoat (for both of us). It’s like having a portable pied-à-terre, without the rental fees.

Where to Eat (With Your Dog At Your Feet)

De Wasserette

In De Pijp, this sunny corner spot has strong coffee and even stronger locals’ vibes. Your dog will be offered a bowl of water before you’re even seated.

Pllek

Overlooking the IJ River in Noord, this is reclaimed industrial bliss. Think yoga on the beach, kombucha, and dog-friendly everything.

Bar Botanique

Lush greenery inside and out, this Insta-famous brunch spot is as welcoming to pups as it is to plant parents.

Where to Shop Like a Local

Dierenwinkel Pijp

Stylish collars, Amsterdam-themed toys, and organic kibble. Yes, your dog will want everything.

De Hallen

Part food court, part design hub. Grab a bite, browse local makers, and rest your paws.

How to Explore Amsterdam

Rent a Bike With a Dog Basket

At MacBike, you can rent bikes with front baskets big enough for smaller pups. It’s the Dutch way or the highway.

Hop on the Tram

Dogs ride for free. Just make sure they’re leashed and calm — another great perk of dog-friendly Amsterdam travel.

Take a Day Trip

Still wondering how to bring it all without stress? You’ll thank yourself for packing smart with the Jenni Bag. It’s a game-changer for city travel with your pup.

Amsterdam Isn’t a Checklist City

It’s a feeling. Slow strolls by the canals, cosy brown cafes, and the joy of watching your dog make friends with locals. Dog-friendly Amsterdam is not about seeing everything. It’s about being part of it all.

If you need that vibe bottled up, start with this. Watch the video.

Real FAQs, Real Answers

Best time to visit Amsterdam?

Late April through early October. Fewer crowds, lush parks, and a calendar full of festivals.

Do I need a car?

Not at all. Public transit is great. Bikes and boats are even better.

Where should I stay?

Pillows Maurits for elegance. The Hoxton for a social vibe. Conscious Hotel if you’re eco-minded.

What’s a must-do experience?

Canal cruise with your pup. Coffee at De Wasserette. Vintage treasure hunt in Noord.

Can I get a custom Nomadia Amsterdam guide?

Yes. DM “Guide” on Instagram, or email @nomadia, and I’ll create your perfect pup-friendly Amsterdam getaway.

A Final Note

This isn’t a destination to rush. It’s a place to pause. Let the city unfold like a slow jazz record, one cobbled street at a time.

Follow @nomadia_1 on Instagram for more hidden gems, dog-friendly cities, and luxury-for-less guides.

Disclaimer: This post was created with the help of AI and human curation. Some links may be affiliate-based, meaning I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only share what I genuinely use and love.